Guitar scale
F# Lydian Guitar Scale
F# Lydian is a seven-note scale built from F#, G#, A#, B#, C#, D#, and E#. It is the 4th relative mode of C# major. Use it to study the scale's notes, interval formula, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Notes
- F#, G#, A#, B#, C#, D#, E#
- Formula
- 1 2 3 #4 5 6 7
- Semitones
- 0 2 4 6 7 9 11
- Parent scale
- C# major
How to read this scale
The notes are shown as pitch classes first. Square markers representF# root notes in the fretboard view, while circular markers represent the other notes in the scale.
Use the interactive fretboard to locate the F# root notes and connect the remaining lydian tones across standard tuning.
Sound and defining tones
F# Lydian keeps a major third but raises the fourth: 3 (A#) and #4 (B#). The raised fourth removes the ordinary major scale's half-step clash above the third and supplies the mode's bright, floating color.
- Characteristic tones
- 3A##4B#
Fretboard diagram
Open this scale in the fretboard tool
Start with F# Lydian loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboardCommon chords and contexts
Use F# Lydian over F# major, F#maj7, or F#maj7#11 harmony when the raised fourth is supported. A sustained major chord or pedal tone makes the modal color easiest to hear.
- Use F# Lydian over F#maj7 or F#maj7#11 sounds when the raised 4 belongs in the harmony.
- It keeps a major quality while adding a brighter, floating color than plain major.
Practice this scale on guitar
- Play F# Lydian from one F# root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and scale degree aloud.
- Play major-triad tones first, then add 3 (A#) and #4 (B#) so the raised fourth is heard as a color tone rather than an accidental passing note.
- Sustain a major chord rooted on F# and alternate phrases that use the perfect fifth with phrases that linger on the raised fourth before resolving.